Betis and Fiorentina fans clash in the city centre

Before the frenzied atmosphere could be warmed up for the historic Conference League semi-final first leg that will take place at 2am on May 2, the city of Seville witnessed a shameful scene of violence.

Real Betis prepare to face Fiorentina in the Conference League.

Shocking images circulating on social media show groups of Real Betis and Fiorentina ultras engaged in a violent brawl right in Alameda de Hércules square, turning a peaceful day into a chaotic "battlefield".

Flares, plastic chairs and other dangerous objects were thrown between the two sides, creating a terrifying scene that sent locals and tourists scrambling for cover. The incident happened just hours before Manuel Pellegrini’s side were due to host Fiorentina at the Benito Villamarín Stadium in a match that could see Betis make history in their first ever European Cup final.

The enthusiasm and expectations are understandable when Betis is flying high in the tournament. However, the unsportsmanlike violence of a small number of fans goes against the noble spirit of football, tarnishes the beautiful image of the city of Seville and spoils the excitement before the top match.

This was not only a confrontation between two teams on the pitch, but also a conflict between hostile and aggressive ultras groups. This brawl sounded the alarm about the problem of football violence, a persistent "disease" haunting European football.

Amidst the negative images, true football fans around the world still hope that this unfortunate incident will not overshadow the value of the Conference League semi-final. They hope for a Fair Play match, where talent and sportsmanship will prevail, instead of senseless acts of violence.

Source: https://znews.vn/fan-betis-fiorentina-hon-chien-giua-trung-tam-thanh-pho-post1550348.html